Police and Home Affairs verify foreign nationals amid anti‑immigrant tensions

eThekwini – The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) on Thursday began a targeted verification process of foreign nationals sheltering at the Diakonia Refugee Centre in eThekwini amid growing fears linked to anti-illegal immigrant groups.

The operation, launched on 21 May, is being conducted by an integrated team involving the Departments of Home Affairs, Social Development and Transport, alongside provincial law enforcement authorities.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), about 200 foreign nationals have sought refuge at the centre after allegedly fearing for their safety in communities where anti-illegal immigrant groups have been active.

The verification process follows engagements between the Southern African Refugee Forum, which represents the group at the centre, and senior NATJOINTS officials from the Department of Home Affairs and law enforcement agencies in KwaZulu-Natal.

Authorities said the process is aimed at determining the legal status of those currently occupying the centre.

NATJOINTS stressed that the operation is not intended to legitimise the stay of undocumented foreign nationals, but rather to ensure that those legally residing in South Africa are protected while undocumented individuals are dealt with in accordance with immigration laws.

KwaZulu-Natal SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the integrated operation would also address issues surrounding what authorities described as the “illegal occupation” of the centre.

“This process will be conducted with the integrated team of NATJOINTS to ensure that we attend to all the issues associated with this illegal occupation of the centre,” said Netshiunda.

He added that individuals found to be in the country illegally would be processed for deportation to their countries of origin.

Police in eThekwini are also investigating several allegations linked to the situation, including assault, intimidation, malicious damage to property and the forced closure of businesses.

High-density operations

Acting KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Major General Phumelela Makoba said all reported cases would be fully investigated.

Authorities have assured residents that the situation is being handled urgently, while reiterating that illegal immigration remains a priority for government.

SAPS said ongoing crime-prevention initiatives, including Operation Shanela, continue to target illegal immigration and related criminal activity nationwide.

Police statistics show that 29,731 undocumented foreign nationals have been arrested during high-density operations across the country since 1 January 2026.

In the previous financial year, 76,588 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested, while the Department of Home Affairs deported 59,814 people.

Authorities said the operations are intelligence-driven and carried out in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with South African immigration laws.